The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) offers financial grants to skilled craft professionals in the UK, enabling them to further their craft education and development. Whether you're refining existing skills or learning new ones, QEST grants are designed to help fund specialized training programs that align with your career ambitions.
Established in 1990, QEST is a charitable trust committed to the promotion and preservation of craftsmanship within the UK. The organization provides support to both emerging makers and experienced professionals, recognizing the diverse needs across various stages of a craftsperson's career. By offering funding for training, including college courses, apprenticeships, and mentorship with expert craftspeople, QEST aims to foster excellence in both traditional and contemporary crafts.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for QEST grants, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a practicing professional in the craft field.
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
- Be a resident of the UK with the right to live permanently or long-term.
- Be committed to continuing their craft practice in the UK and contributing to the craft sector.
- Apply for funding to cover future training or educational opportunities.
Types of Grants Available
QEST offers different types of grants to cater to various levels of professional development:
- Scholarship Application: For those pursuing advanced studies or specialized training.
- Emerging Maker Grant: Designed for individuals early in their career seeking to enhance their craft.
- Apprenticeship Application: For those looking to undertake an apprenticeship with a master craftsperson.
Grants can be used for a range of educational programs, including traditional courses, one-on-one vocational tuition, and a combination of short courses tailored to the applicant’s needs. The Trust supports both traditional crafts as well as the conservation and restoration of tangible objects.
How to Apply
Applications for QEST grants are open twice a year:
- Spring Application Period: 6 January – 10 February 2025 (for training starting in July 2025).
- Autumn Application Period: 9 July – 13 August 2025 (for training starting in January 2026).
To apply, visit the QEST website and select the appropriate application based on your career stage. Prepare a detailed training plan, including a justified budget, and submit your application online.
For more information or to gain inspiration, explore the QEST Makers Directory, which features profiles of previous grant recipients and their successful projects.
Award Amounts and Benefits
QEST grants offer varying amounts of financial support depending on the nature and scope of the training program. The Trust’s flexible approach ensures that successful applicants can access the funding they need to advance their craft and reach their full potential.
By supporting ongoing training, QEST helps craft professionals enhance their technical skills, preserve traditional craftsmanship, and contribute to the growing creative economy in the UK.
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Final Notes
The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust offers invaluable support for craft professionals seeking to enhance their skills through targeted education and training. If you’re passionate about your craft and wish to elevate your expertise, QEST grants provide an excellent opportunity to gain access to top-tier educational programs and mentorship. Be sure to check the application deadlines and submit your application as soon as possible for a chance to receive funding.
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